Your phone fingerprint scanner won't recognize your finger
Your finger or the scanner is probably dirty, or your fingerprint needs to be re-added. Cleaning both and re-scanning your finger fixes it for most people.
Your phone's fingerprint scanner reads tiny details in your fingerprint to unlock your phone. When it stops working, the scanner is dirty, your finger is wet or dirty, or the fingerprint data is corrupted. We'll clean the scanner, clean your finger, and re-scan your fingerprint if needed.
Risk: Medium
⏱ 10–15 minutes
Beginner
⚡ Before you start
- ✓Have your PIN or pattern lock ready in case you need to unlock your phone another way
- ✓Make sure your fingers are clean and dry
- ✓Have a soft, lint-free cloth available
Fix-IT-Bot will walk you through each step, just tap, no typing needed.
Skip, I just want a technicianCommon mistakes to avoid
- Trying the scan while your finger is wet or dirty — moisture blocks the scanner
- Placing your finger at an angle instead of straight down on the scanner
Signs you need professional help
- If you've cleaned the scanner and your finger, removed any blocking screen protector, re-added your fingerprint, and restarted your phone but it still won't work, give us a call — the sensor can be faulty.
Book a technician
We can fix most issues remotely in 15 minutes. Book your weekend slot and we handle the rest.
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Can't fix it yourself?
Most issues are resolved remotely in 15 minutes. Weekend appointments only, no parts, no in-home visit needed.
